Bonaire

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers  

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.  

• Dial 911 for police, fire, or ambulance 
• Dial +599-717-8000 for routine police calls 
• Dial +599-0802- 0802 for toll-free non-governmental domestic violence hotline.   

Crime  

Bonaire has low crime. The police force is professional and responsive. Crimes are generally non-violent, such as pickpocketing, thefts of unattended bags, and smash and grabs of empty vehicles.  

Safety tips: 

• Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas or in unsecured hotel rooms and rental homes.  
• Keep a copy of your valid U.S. passport in a secure location in case it is stolen. 
• The legal drinking age of 18 is not always rigorously enforced on Bonaire. Extra parental supervision may be appropriate.  
• Travel in pairs or groups and be responsible with alcohol consumption. 

Scams  

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.  

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help. 

Tourist scams can occur but are not common in Bonaire. Scams can involve fraudulent services or overcharging for services. 

Common scams include:       

• Taxi overcharging: Confirm a fixed price before entering a taxi or use hotel recommended taxi services. 
• Fake tours or tour operators.  
• Currency conversion scams. 
• Rental vehicle damage claims: check rental vehicles carefully for dents/scratches in the presence of an agent. 
• Relationship/romance scams.  

If using dating apps or websites in Bonaire:   

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.  
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.    
• Meet in a popular public place.   
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).  
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.  
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.  
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.  
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.  
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime  

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 911.  

Review our information for Victims of Crime.    

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:   

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.  
• Help you find medical care.    
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.   
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.   
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.    
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.   
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.   
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.   
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home

Sexual assault and domestic violence   

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Consulate General Curaçao and local law enforcement for assistance.  
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Consulate General Curaçao, local law enforcement, and the nongovernmental local advice and hotline for assistance.

Technology use abroad  

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:  

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.  
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.    
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.   
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.  
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.  

Drones 

• Drones are legal in Bonaire though highly regulated under strict Dutch Caribbean aviation laws.  
• You must register drones over 250 grams.  
• Special permits are required for commercial use.  
• Do not fly drones above 400 feet and keep them in sight. 
• Do not fly drones over crowds, government buildings, national parks, marine reserves, or residential areas.

Tourism safety  

The tourism industry is not well regulated:  

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.   
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.   
• Staff may not be trained or certified.   
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for  
• appropriate medical care.   
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.   
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.   

Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel   

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.  

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties  

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.   
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.    
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.  
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.  
• Before you start a business or a profession in Bonaire seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Arrest notification   

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

A judge can order suspects held during an investigation without a hearing.

Detention conditions  

• Detainees in Bonaire often suffer delays receiving their prescribed or over-the-counter medications.  
• Detainees may also not receive timely emergency and routine medical care. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods  

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.   

• They may be illegal according to local laws.    
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.    
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.    

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:   

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection   
• U.S. Department of Justice 

Faith-based travelers  

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:    

• Faith-Based Travel  
• Volunteering Abroad  
• International Religious Freedom Reports  

Gay and lesbian travelers  

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Bonaire.    
• Public attitudes towards same-sex relationships in Bonaire are largely positive and supportive. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.  

Travelers with disabilities or accessibility needs  

The law in Bonaire prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.   

• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, communication, access to services, and ease of movement or access. 
• Expect accessibility to be limited in lodging, and general infrastructure. Expect repair and replacement parts for mobility devices or sensory aids to be limited, as well as sign language interpreters and certified personal assistants. 
• Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. 

Review our information on Accessibility Needs.  

Students  

Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers    

• Review our information for Women Travelers.   
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

Human rights  

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources  

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Bonaire Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.  
• CDC Medical Tourism information   
• World Health Organization  
• Medicine and Health  
• Travel Insurance  

Emergency numbers  

Dial 911 for emergency medical services including ambulance, police, and fire department.  

Ambulance services  

Ambulance services are widely available.  

Medical payments and insurance  

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.   

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.  
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.  
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.  
• Medical care is not free in Bonaire. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.  
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Bonaire. 
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  
• Credit card payment is not always available.  
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.  
• Private and Public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.    
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.  
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.  
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.   

Vaccinations  

Yellow Fever: Proof of vaccination is required if arriving from select countries. 

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

• CDC Travelers’ Health  
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities   

Health facilities are available Bonaire.   

• The U.S. Consulate General in Curaçao maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 
• Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• Medical staff speak English.  
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.   
• Psychological and psychiatric services are available. 
• Hospital-based care is available through government institutions

Prescription medications   

Drug stores or “boticas” provide prescription and over-the-counter medicine. You need a local prescription and may not be able to find medications normally available in the United States.  

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.   
• For medications containing controlled substances, it is strongly advised you travel with a note from your doctor. 
• Bonaire does not allow the importation of marijuana, cannabis, or CBD, even with a prescription and could result in criminal liability.  

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.   

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.   

For more information:   

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection   
• Food and Drug Administration  

Non-traditional medicine   

We strongly recommend against participating in local non-traditional medicine. Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases. 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy  

If you are considering traveling to Bonaire to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.   

• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Bonaire with no clear legal protection for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Bonaire courts.  
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Bonaire via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays with local authorities while documenting your child’s birth or citizenship status. 
• Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences. 

Water quality and food safety   

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.   

Air quality  

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.   

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.   
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.   

For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.  

Transportation

Road conditions and safety  

There may be no signs, they could be hidden, or poorly maintained. This is a major road hazard on Bonaire. Main roads range from good to fair. Rural roads are poorly maintained.

• Dial 911 for emergency services. Police and ambulances tend to respond quickly to emergency situations. 
• Proceed through intersections with caution. 
• Roads can be extremely slippery during rainfall.  
• Night driving is reasonably safe if you are familiar with the route and road conditions. 
• Many streets are poorly lit or not lit at all. 
• Stay alert for wild donkeys or other animals crossing the road.

Traffic laws     

You can use your U.S. driver's license in Bonaire, but you must have had your license for at least 2 years. 

• Right turns on red are prohibited and traffic conditions require somewhat defensive driving.  
• Local laws require drivers and passengers to wear seat belts and motorcyclists to wear helmets.  
• Children under 4 years of age must be in child safety seats. Children under 12 must ride in the back seat. 

Taxis and ride-shares  

Taxis are primarily at airport and cruise terminals. Uber, Lyft, or similar services are not available. 

• Taxis are an easy form of transportation in Bonaire, but they are not available quickly.  
• Verify the price before entering the taxi, as there are no meters. Fares are quoted in U.S. dollars. 

Public and commercial transportation   

• Public minibuses are inexpensive and run nonstop during the day with no fixed schedule. Each minibus has a specific route displayed on the windshield.  
• Buses, which run on the hour, have limited routes. 
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.   

Aviation safety oversight   

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Bonaire meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Maritime travel  

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Bonaire should check the following:    

• U.S. Maritime Advisories 
• U.S. Maritime Alerts 
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons        

The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of Bonaire. Mariners and passengers in Bonaire ports should be careful and use stronger security measures.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Bonaire has a warm, dry, and windy climate that stays about the same throughout the year.  

Hurricanes  

Bonaire is outside the main hurricane belt, so direct hurricane hits are rare. 

• Tropical storms passing to the north can still affect Bonaire, mostly from June through November. 
• Peak storm activity is usually from August through October. 
• During these months, Bonaire may have stronger winds, rougher seas, and occasional heavy rain, even when a storm is far away. 

Rainy season  

From October through January, the island has a short rainy season. 

• Expect brief, intense showers and occasional thunderstorms. 
• Heavy rain can cause temporary street flooding and dangerous driving conditions. 
• Rain usually passes quickly and is followed by clear skies. 
• The rest of the year has only occasional light showers. 

Trade winds 

Trade winds blow from the east almost all year. Winds are strongest from January through August. 

• Winds keep temperatures pleasant and reduce humidity.  
• Winds can create choppy seas, strong currents, and high surf on windward coasts.  
• If you plan to swim, dive, or go boating, check sea conditions and wind strength. This is more important than checking rain forecasts. 

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources  

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.  

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.  
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.  
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.  
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.  

Embassies and consulates